1974 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
A mid-1970s D-45 — Martin's flagship acoustic with full abalone ornamentation. Indian rosewood and spruce deliver excellent tone while the abalone inlay represents the pinnacle of acoustic guitar artistry.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Thinking About Selling Your 1974 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45?
We buy directly from owners — no auction fees, no waiting. Get a fair offer based on current market data.
Specifications
| Body Wood | Spruce (top), Indian Rosewood (back and sides) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony belly bridge (with abalone inlay) |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite (gold) |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 480 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic — full abalone inlay treatment.
What Changed in 1974
Mid-1970s D-45 — production stabilized. Indian rosewood standard. The D-45 remained Martin's most ornate and prestigious production model. The abalone inlay treatment is breathtaking regardless of the rosewood species.
Collector's Notes
Mid-1970s D-45s are the most accessible way to own Martin's flagship model. The abalone inlay alone justifies the premium over standard models. Check inlay condition carefully.
How to Authenticate a 1974 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
Martin serial numbers are the most reliable in the industry — verify the number stamped on the neck block (visible through the soundhole) against Martin's published tables. For 1974, the number should fall within the documented range. Indian rosewood back and sides — verify correct grain and coloring. Non-scalloped X-bracing pattern for this era — verify through the soundhole. The D-45's distinctive abalone pearl bordering on top, back, sides, fingerboard, and headstock must all be original. Verify all inlay and appointments match factory specifications. Check for neck resets, top cracks (especially near soundhole and bridge), and bridge plate condition. Tuners should be Grover Sta-Tite (gold). Finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer with age-appropriate wear. Original case adds value.